Canon lens vs. Sigma
Nov 28, 2016 10:03:21 #
I'm an avid birder who is considering a longer lens for my EOS7D. I started looking at the Canon EF 100-400 F4.5 and then learning about the Sigma 150-600 5.6 which is available in two models at significantly different prices. Both Canon and Sigma offer image stabilization on their lenses. I have a Canon 1.4 extender that I intend to use with the new Canon lens, if that's what I settle on. Not sure it would work with the Sigma. I'd like to hear any thoughts on the merits of these two lenses side by side. The Canon, of course, is quite a bit more expensive, but that's not a deal breaker for me. Weight might be, since the Sigma weighs a whopping 3 lbs. more than the Canon. Any comments on overall quality, performance, sharpness etc. would be welcomed.
Nov 28, 2016 10:09:16 #
scottbri wrote:
I'm an avid birder who is considering a longer len... (show quote)
The Canon lens is demonstrably better. Much stronger construction and better image quality. Check regarding the 1.4 converter I believe it will work fine. I have a 2x converter that only works AF in live view with my 100-400 MII but the quality is top notch as far as the image is concerned as the 100-400 MII was made specifically to work great with the III versions of the converters.
Nov 28, 2016 10:10:42 #
In regards to the Sigma 150-600, I'm just a beginner, but I purchased the Sigma 150-600 contemporary. First of all, it's heavy. Although it has image stabilization, it does NOT lock on your subject when auto focusing. The image bounces around in my viewfinder, although the end result does not show motion. I even sent it back to Sigma because a photographer friend of mine borrowed it to see if he would like to purchase one and didn't like that feature. Sigma updated the firmware and when I got the lens back, same issue so I called Sigma and he said that's normal, there was nothing wrong with the lens. You might be able to tweak that with a docking station (another $50) as there are 3 settings through the dock for "auto focusing." When I read reviews on this lens, they all said you lose sharpness at the full 600. I haven't played with it enough to make a comment on that. Other comments I have read people love the lens.
Nov 28, 2016 10:14:10 #
scottbri wrote:
I'm an avid birder who is considering a longer len... (show quote)
I assume you are referring to version 2 of Canon's 100-400. It is sharper than any of the other lens you mention and does a great job with the extender. However, the Sigma lenses are also very sharp and obviously have greater range. For me, the difference in image quality does not justify the premium price for the Canon. But this would be a personal choice. Hundreds of reviews are posted on the internet. You might start there and consider UHH a secondary source frequently inhabited by biased and uninformed posters.
Nov 28, 2016 10:16:49 #
Hello. My name is Dennis. I can't saw much about Canon lens as I am a nikon shooter, but I have the sigma 150-600 C and love it. As I usually use it on a mono or tripod weight is not a problem. The pics are sharp and the auto focus is instant.I got mine in a bundle with some other goodies from focus camera, and you can't beat the price. All in all I am very satisfied with thus lens.
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Nov 28, 2016 10:26:24 #
I, coincidentally, just watched a Tony Northrup video (20 Photography Misconceptions) where he specifically referenced these two lenses and stated that the Canon 100-400 II was sharper at 400mm cropped to 600mm than the Sigma at 600mm. Would suggest you also check out the DxOMark website which has specific test results for comparison. Good luck!
Nov 28, 2016 10:37:36 #
Just a note. I believe that the max f-stop for autofocus on your 7D is f5.6, so AF won't work when using the teleconverter, but will work without it.
Nov 28, 2016 10:40:02 #
I recently purchased a new Canon 100-400 II telephoto lens, and it is by far, the best piece of glass that I've ever bought or used and that includes some old 35mm high end prime lenses. I know nothing about the Sigma line of lenses, but I shoot Canon and want Canon lenses. FWIW, I don't put Chevy parts in my Ford!
Nov 28, 2016 10:46:37 #
scottbri wrote:
I'm an avid birder who is considering a longer len... (show quote)
If you are talking about the 7DII, for most ( casual) people, I would recommend the Canon 100-400 either I or II and crop your way to 600mm and use pixel enlargement if necessary.
If you are truly "avid" and are willing to make the size/weight management commitment necessary for using the Sigma S lens - then I believe it is the ultimate solution optically. The Canon will hold an edge in focusing ( at f5.6 without a TC) at 400mm. The Sigma will have an edge at 600mm and f6.3. The Canon will have an edge in handholding due to smaller size/weight. ........So, what matters to you most ??
Nov 28, 2016 10:48:06 #
Do not discount the Sigma too much. I have both and the 100-400 Canon is a good lens for what it is. But the Sigma's are VERY close, in most cases too close to differentiate. Plus, they are 50% more reach for less than half the price of the Canon, not to mention 4 times the warranty. I took this pic 2 weeks ago and just sold full rights for it to a NYC Publishing company for more than my lens cost. Oh yeah, my lens was a Sigma Sport used at full 600mm zoom, hand held, at dusk.
And remember, 400mm at F5.6 with a TC is only 560mm at F8. Hardly a desirable shooting choice.
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-423507-1.html
And remember, 400mm at F5.6 with a TC is only 560mm at F8. Hardly a desirable shooting choice.
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-423507-1.html
Nov 28, 2016 10:48:55 #
Retired fat guy with a camera
Loc: Colorado
I do not think your 1.4 extender will work with the Sigma.
Nov 28, 2016 10:57:38 #
I kind of have the same question but I am looking at the Tamron 150-600. I have 2 Tamron lenses for my 7D and am very impressed with both of them. Anyhow here's a review comparing the Sigma, Tamron and Canon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TawKGClbECU&t=1000s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TawKGClbECU&t=1000s
Nov 28, 2016 11:01:09 #
imagemeister wrote:
If you are talking about the 7DII, for most ( casu... (show quote)
AVOID a TC with any of the lenses you are considering.
Nov 28, 2016 11:05:07 #
imagemeister wrote:
AVOID a TC with any of the lenses you are considering.
Check the MTF charts with the canon MII and TC MIII. Do not need to avoid at all. Have used the 2x MIII looks better than most off brand zooms straight.
Nov 28, 2016 11:07:33 #
Architect1776 wrote:
Check the MTF charts with the canon MII and TC MIII. Do not need to avoid at all. Have used the 2x MIII looks better than most off brand zooms straight.
It is not because of the optical IQ - but because of the focusing IQ .....
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